City & Guilds Impact Report 2023 reinforces commitment to meaningful change

Showcasing the difference we make to over 3.5M people, the organisations we work with, and the economies we impact.

05 October 2023

“This report really does demonstrate the importance of investing in skills development for both the social and economic health of the nation.” 
– Kirstie Donnelly, City & Guilds CEO

At City & Guilds, our purpose has remained unchanged for nearly 150 years: to help individuals, organisations, and economies develop their skills for growth.

Our 2023 impact report, published today by the City & Guilds Foundation, reinforces our commitment to this purpose and to creating meaningful change.

Celebrating our achievements over the last year, the report showcases the difference we're making to people, the organisations we work with, and the economies we impact. Some of the highlights include:

  • 3.5 million learners globally.
  • 72% of our learners have progressed into further education or work, outperforming the market.
  • £11.2 billion contributed to society by City & Guilds courses in the UK*.
  • Over 250,000 digital credentials issued in 2023, a 12-fold increase.
  • Green Skills completions quadrupled, preparing us for a net-zero economy.
  • £10 million of social value created through the Big Idea Fund.

In a statement, City & Guilds CEO Kirstie Donnelly shared:

“I have always known that City & Guilds is a force for good – helping millions of people to access skills… I am delighted to be able to launch today our impact report, which brings to life exactly how we’re delivering on our purpose and making a real difference – genuinely changing lives… 

This report really does demonstrate the importance of investing in skills development for both the social and economic health of the nation. And it reflects how passionate we all are across City & guilds in wanting individuals and organisations to thrive.”

Access the full report below and learn more by visiting our Foundation website.

Read the Impact Report 2023

*This figure has been calculated based on the expected earnings uplift, learners’ wellbeing and annualised value of future increased earnings resulting from achieving a City & Guilds qualification.